Merlot

The Grape

Merlot is a dark blue-coloured wine grape that is one of the world’s most planted grape varieties in both the old and new worlds. It is used both for single varietal wines and as a blending grape. It is best known as the most widely planted grape in the Bordeaux wine region of France, and one of the primary grapes used to make Bordeaux style wines.  Merlot grapes are identified by their loose bunches of large, thinner skin berries.

The Wines

Traditional Bordeaux style Merlot wines are usually medium-bodied with medium to high acidity and fresh, red fruit flavours. New world style Merlots, where grapes are allowed to ripen longer, feature fruitier flavours and tend to be fuller in body with higher alcohol. Merlot wines are a good choice for people trying to get accustomed to drier, more complex red wines because their lower tannins make them easier to drink than other reds wines.

The Occasions

As an easy-drinking wine, Merlot pairs well with many foods. Its softer, fruity characteristics make it delicious paired with lighter foods, like fish and poultry.  Avoid drinking it with spicy foods as they will overwhelm Merlot’s nuanced flavours. You don’t actually need to pair Merlot with anything – just sip it on its own while watching TV after a long day.